The Norman Transcript

Features

Discussion

January 25, 2013

Margarine or butter?

By Ashley Giddens MS, RD/LD The Norman Transcript

NORMAN — Q: Margarine versus butter — which is better for me?

A: Let us start by comparing the two. Butter naturally contains more cholesterol and saturated fat — cholesterol because it is an animal fat. Saturated fat and cholesterol in excess will raise LDL and HDL cholesterol. While raising HDL cholesterol levels is actually favorable, it would be best to choose a food that does not elevate LDL levels in the process. Increased LDL cholesterol is a risk for heart disease.

On the other hand, margarine is made from vegetable oils, so it contains no cholesterol but instead polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which are heart healthy fats. Margarines, however are not completely innocent as they may contain trans fat, which is created through the process of hydrogenation of these oils in order to make a shelf-stable product.

Trans fats increase LDL cholesterol levels in addition to saturated fat. Do check the nutrition label of margarines for the lowest trans fat amount and make sure hydrogenated oils or partially hydrogenated oils are not on the ingredients list.

Some people feel that butter is a more natural choice than margarine and that eating something more natural will give them piece of mind.

In the big picture, portion control and moderation are emphasized with either type of fat. Using butter should not be a daily occurrence, in other words. This may be a good opportunity to try various oils, such as canola oil, olive oil, sesame seed oil, flaxseed oil, peanut oil and others. These oils and those that originate from other nuts and seeds provide those heart-healthy fats, poly and monounsaturated fat. It is recommended to use these fats more often. These oils can offer an enriching and unique flavor to dishes as well.

When it comes to heart health, a good rule of thumb to remember when choosing dietary fats, opt for a fat that is liquid at room temperature rather than solid.

For local news and more, subscribe to The Norman Transcript Smart Edition, or our print edition.

Text Only | Photo Reprints
Features
  • It’s tough to grow up, but it’s worth it

    Q: I have a daughter taking classes for high school credit, and I don’t understand this concept. Can you explain what she and I should be keeping track of to ensure she graduates on time? — Allen, Norman Dear Allen, What a perfect ...

    May 24, 2013

  • Watch for snakes in storm debris

    While touring the May 20th tornado-damaged areas of Moore, I noted many debris-clogged streams and wet areas. Severe storms can play havoc with water sources, such as drainages, creeks or even sewer systems; sometimes driving snakes into ...

    May 24, 2013

  • Those birds drove me in

    Have you ever seen the birds as active as they are during this cool, rainy spring? They were just going bonkers during Mother’s Day weekend — the sparrows especially hop-skipping, dive-bombing over each other in order to grab that tad of ...

    May 24, 2013

  • Harbingers of summer

    In case you failed to notice, every season is preceded by certain indications of the season to follow. In the southern parts of the country, particularly in Texas and Oklahoma, people are deluded into believing cool weather is just around ...

    May 24, 2013

  • How to use herbal supplements safely

    Dear Savvy Senior, Are herbal supplements safe for seniors who are taking other prescription medications? I have a friend who swears by them, but I want to be sure before I take anything new....

    May 21, 2013

  • Norman doctor preparing for Winter Gala for Parkinson’s Research on Dec. 12

    Nov. 1, 2011, is a day that Nicole Jarvis, M.D., will never forget. It was on this day that Jarvis, who was only 38, was officially given the diagnosis of Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease. Now, at 40, Jarvis juggles her illness, her ...

    May 19, 2013

  • Texting for tacos

    Before I unleash the next couple of sentences, I want to warn some of you to be prepared for some harsh words. OK. Here we go. I don’t enjoy receiving or sending text messages. There, I said it. I love the cell phone and think it’s the ...

    May 19, 2013

  • Norman Galaxy of Writers score at Oklahoma contest

    Six Norman Galaxy of Writers members took home 14 awards May 3 and 4 at the annual Oklahoma Writers’ Federation Inc. conference at the Norman Embassy Suites Hotel. In addition, Robert Ferrier served as judge for a poetry category and ...

    May 19, 2013

  • Norman Music Institute show to benefit nonprofit

    For Gregg Standridge, instructor at Norman Music Institute, music inspires many things, including a passion for community. It is this inspiration that has moved the Norman Music Institute instructors to host an event combining music and ...

    May 19, 2013

  • NAIC to host workshop Friday

    Jan Astani will provide a marketing workshop, “Communicating Our Story in the Community,” from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Friday. The workshop is the last in a leadership training series sponsored by Norman Addiction Information & Counseling, A ...

    May 19, 2013